Characterisation of Noise Sources, Noise Level Distribution and Perceived Noise Disturbance in University Canteens: An Empirical Study

Objective: University canteens are high-density public spaces where acoustic environment quality directly affects students’ dining experience, health and learning efficiency. Excessive noise is common in these settings, yet existing studies mostly focus on overall noise levels, with limited investigation of detailed noise source identification and distribution analysis in student dining scenes. This study aimed to identify major noise sources, clarify spatial and temporal variations in noise levels, and provide empirical support for acoustic environment optimisation. Methods: Three types of university canteens were selected as study sites. Field measurements, questionnaire surveys and statistical analyses were used to identify noise sources, evaluate spatiotemporal noise distribution, explore correlations between noise levels and canteen characteristics, and propose targeted optimisation strategies. Results: Students’ perceived contribution rates of main noise sources in university canteens were as follows: vocal noise (45.2%), tableware noise (26.8%), equipment noise (20.3%), and other noise (7.7%). Across the three canteens, the mean equivalent sound levels during lunch and dinner peak periods were above 73 dB(A), exceeding the 60 dB(A) national standard limit. Noise levels varied significantly across dining periods and spatial areas, with layout and reverberation time as key influencing factors. Conclusion: This study developed a “noise source–scene–intensity distribution” analytical framework, providing empirical evidence and practical references for noise control, environmental design and improvement of students’ dining experiences in university canteens.